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Whether it’s for the convenience of a cord-free work space or because an off-grid grinding job is on the docket, cordless angle grinders are capable of the task. These tools contain heavy-duty batteries that power high-speed motors, spin grinding wheels, or cut metal stock to length. However, grinding is hard work, and only the best cordless angle grinders are really able to get the job done.
Keep reading to learn more about angle grinders and the considerations to keep in mind when choosing the best model.
- BEST OVERALL: Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless
- BEST BANG FOR THE BUCK: Ryobi 18 ONE+ 18V Cordless 4-1/2 in. Grinder Kit
- UPGRADE PICK: DeWalt 20V MAX Angle Grinder Tool Kit
- BEST HEAVY-DUTY: Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Cordless Grinder
- BEST LIGHT-DUTY: Craftsman V20 Angle Grinder, Small, 4-1/2-Inch
- BEST KIT: Kimo 20V Cordless Angle Grinder
- BEST TOP SPEED: Ridgid 18-Volt Octane Cordless 4-½-in. Angle Grinder
- BEST LIGHTWEIGHT: Metabo HPT Angle Grinder | 4-1/2-Inch
What to Consider When Choosing the Best Cordless Angle Grinder
Before choosing a grinder, it’s best to learn about the characteristics of the best cordless angle grinder. The following sections include some of the top “need-to-knows” when picking out the best cordless angle grinder for a workshop, a particular project, or a range of other uses. Keep these qualities in mind when comparing models.
Motor
In cordless angle grinders—and all power tools—manufacturers produce two types of motors: brushed and brushless. Brushed motors have been around longer, while brushless motors are more or less the new school of electric motors.
Brushed motors require more maintenance than brushless motors, and because of their design, they are generally less energy efficient. However, they’re also less expensive than brushless motors, so many folks prefer them.
Brushless motors require less maintenance, and they have complex onboard electronic controls to modulate their output. These motors offer more power and improved energy efficiency, but they cost more than brushed variants.
Which motor to go with depends on the user. For those who don’t mind swapping out brushes every few years and prefer to save money, brushed motors are a good choice. DIYers who want the most power and efficiency they can get may want to check out brushless models.
Power and Speed
Cordless angle grinders must have the power and speed to complete the job. Power is usually determined by the battery output. Models that use 18-volt or 20-volt batteries offer more power than those that use 9-volt or 12-volt batteries, which allows them to handle heavier-duty tasks, such as cutting metal stock or grinding welds.
Speed is also a factor. Angle grinders that offer 8,500 to 10,000 rpm are the most versatile. Speeds in this range allow the user to cut through metal and grind welds quickly. Some models even have variable speeds, allowing the user to modulate battery usage while keeping the metal and grinding disc cooler.
Battery
Cordless angle grinders use a lot of power, so they must have batteries that can meet their needs. Batteries that can provide 4.0-amp-hours, 5.0-amp-hours, or even 8.0 amp-hours are often the best, as they can power the grinder for a long time before requiring a recharge. Some kits come with two batteries, allowing the user to swap between them when a battery dies.
DIYers invested in a specific cordless power tool brand may already have a slew of batteries. They may want to buy a “bare tool” angle grinder that uses those same batteries. These grinders, which are available at a lower price, may be an ideal way to grow a tool kit without making a huge investment.
Weight and Ergonomic Design
Some cordless angle grinders weigh less than 5 pounds (without the battery), which means a user can comfortably hold and manipulate them for longer periods of time.
Angle grinders sometimes have over-molded rubber grips to reduce the amount of vibration the user feels. Multi-positional handles give the user the ability to hold the grinder in the most comfortable, safest position for each task.
Disc Size
Cordless angle grinders typically come with 4.5-inch discs, which are versatile for most tasks while also being small enough for the grinder to spin quickly. They can cut metal stock, angle iron, and sheet metal, as well as flatten welds and sand paint.
Some models can handle larger discs in the 5-inch range. These models are typically brushless and have advanced electronic systems that modulate speed and power output. However, they’re often more expensive than the 4.5-inch disc models.
Tool-Free Adjustments
Grinding often requires changing angles, grips, and even speeds, so having the ability to make quick adjustments helps production speed. For this reason, many cordless angle grinders offer tool-free adjustments.
When changing the angle of the grinder, it’s often necessary to adjust the shield to get it out of the way and protect the user. Many models have small tabs that the user can flip open to facilitate this adjustment.
Many tools allow users to adjust the speed with a dial or push-button, which allows them to work carefully and avoid overheating the metal. It also makes grinding and cutting wheels last longer.
Additional Features and Accessories
While these sections address most of the important features to consider, a few additional characteristics and accessories to consider include:
- Safety features, such as two-stage triggers, electronic brakes, and kickback brakes, help keep the user safe.
- Accessory kits come with certain cordless angle grinders that include grinding and cutting wheels, as well as sanding discs and even wire wheels.
- Carrying bags and cases are also available, allowing users to safely store their cordless angle grinders when not in use and transport them to a project.
Our Top Picks
To help make shopping easier, the following list contains some of the best models on the market in their respective categories. Keep these top considerations in mind when comparing cordless angle grinders.
Best Overall
Makita XAG04Z 18V LXT Lithium-Ion Brushless Cordless
DIYers and pros looking for an all-around high-quality cordless angle grinder can check out Makita’s 18V LXT model. This brushless model’s high speed of 8,500 rpm means it can cut and grind quickly. While it doesn’t come with a battery or charger, the reduced price may make it a good choice for those who already own some of the brand’s 18-volt battery tools.
This variable speed angle grinder features a toolless adjustable guard as well as a lock-on, thumb-activated trigger, which combine to help users work quickly and safely at a variety of angles. This model features an electronic feedback system that helps sense and regulate speeds, as well as an over-molded rubber grip and multi-positional handle.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 or 5 inches
- Motor type: Brushless
- Top speed: 8,500 rpm
Pros
- Electronic feedback system
- Toolless guard adjustment
- 2-stage trigger
- Brushless motor
Cons
- No battery
Get the Makita cordless angle grinder on Amazon or The Home Depot.
Best Bang For The Buck
Ryobi 18 ONE+ 18V Cordless 4-1/2 in. Grinder Kit
Budding metalworkers who prefer not to blow their whole budget on an angle grinder may want to check out this model from Ryobi. This ONE+ 18V Cordless Angle Grinder uses the brand’s popular battery line, and even though it comes with a relatively small 1.5-amp-hour battery, it accepts much larger batteries.
This model features a toolless adjustable blade guard as well as a two-stage trigger for safety. It comes with a three-position handle to allow for comfortable handling and a rubber grip to reduce vibration and improve control. It has a top speed of 6,500 rpm and comes with a multi-positional handle for an affordable price.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushed
- Top speed: 6,500 rpm
Pros
- Uses Ryobi’s ONE+ battery line
- Toolless guard adjustments
- 3-position handle
Cons
- Small battery
Get the Ryobi cordless angle grinder kit at The Home Depot or on Amazon.
Upgrade Pick
DeWalt 20V MAX Angle Grinder Tool Kit
Those searching for a high-end, powerful grinder with all the bells and whistles may want to check out DeWalt’s 20V MAX Angle Grinder Tool Kit. This model features a brushless motor with speeds that adjust up to 9,000 rpm. It comes with a charger and two 6.0-amp-hour batteries for plenty of runtime as well as a two-position handle.
While this model is powerful, it’s also quite safe. It features a two-stage trigger to prevent accidental activation as well as a toolless blade guard. It has a kickback brake that shuts down the grinder if it kicks or pinches, along with an electric brake to stop the blade when the trigger is released. The grip is rubber molded, helping to reduce vibration and provide more control. However, it’s quite expensive.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushless
- Top speed: 9,000 rpm
Pros
- Variable speeds up to 9,000 rpm
- Toolless blade guard
- Anti-kickback brake and electric brake
- 2 heavy-duty batteries
Cons
- A bit expensive
Get the DeWalt cordless angle grinder on Amazon or The Home Depot (with an additional battery).
Best Heavy-Duty
Milwaukee M18 FUEL 18-Volt Cordless Grinder
This cordless angle grinder from Milwaukee has a brushed motor, boasts a maximum speed of 8,500 rpm, and features the brand’s RedLink technology to monitor output and overheating.
This cordless angle grinder from Milwaukee features a toolless blade guard that users can position to protect themselves. For ergonomics, the model offers a three-position handle. It also features overload protection that stops the disc to prevent the types of damage that heavy-duty use can cause. It’s expensive compared to many other models, however, which could deter some shoppers.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushed
- Top speed: 8,500 rpm
Pros
- RedLink technology
- Heavy-duty battery
- 3-position handle and toolless blade guard
Cons
- Expensive
Get the Milwaukee cordless angle grinder at The Home Depot.
Best Light-Duty
Craftsman V20 Angle Grinder, Small, 4-1/2-Inch
For light grinding jobs, check out the Craftsman V20 cordless angle grinder. This model features a comfortable grip with a protected D-type handle for safety. It has a brushed motor that spins 4.5-inch discs up to 8,500 rpm, which is enough power for most light-duty applications. The Craftsman angle grinder features a thumb-activated safety switch and large paddle shifter for comfort and safety.
This cordless angle grinder doesn’t come with a battery, but it utilizes Craftsman’s V20 battery lineup, allowing Craftsman tool owners to utilize their current batteries and save money.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushed
- Top speed: 8,500 rpm
Pros
- Uses the Craftsman battery lineup
- 8,500 rpm
- Comfortable D-type handle
Cons
- No battery
Get the Craftsman cordless angle grinder on Amazon.
Best Kit
Kimo 20V Cordless Angle Grinder
DIYers new to grinding may want to start with a kit filled with accessories capable of handling any job. This model from Kimo contains almost everything necessary, including sandpaper, metal-cutting wheels, grinding wheels, a wood-cutting wheel, and a hook-and-loop wheel. The kit comes with a 4.0-amp-hour battery and a compact charger, all of which bundle into a carrying kit.
The grinder features a brushless motor that spins 4.5-inch wheels at 9,000 rpm. It has a toolless blade guard and a two-position handle, making this model safe and comfortable to use in a variety of positions. However, keep in mind that the Kimo has a thumb-activated button without a trigger, which may take getting used to.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5-inch
- Motor type: Brushless
- Top speed: 9,000 rpm
Pros
- Complete kit for beginners
- 9,000-rpm brushless motor
- Toolless guard and two-position handle
Cons
- Thumb switch might take practice
Get the Kimo cordless angle grinder on Amazon.
Best Top Speed
Ridgid 18-Volt Octane Cordless 4-½-in. Angle Grinder
DIYers, pros, and metalworkers looking for a grinder with lots of speed may want to consider this Ridgid cordless angle grinder. It uses the brand’s 18-volt batteries to power its brushless motor, which spins 4.5-inch discs at up to 10,000 rpm for high-speed cutting and grinding. While it’s a tool-only purchase, those invested in the line may save money on the kit.
This high-speed angle grinder offers safety and comfort. It has a toolless adjustable blade guard as well as a three-position handle. The rubber grip helps reduce vibration (important in such a high-speed tool). It also features a lock-off safety that prevents the tool from activating if the switch is in the “on” position when a battery is inserted.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushless
- Top speed: 10,000 rpm
Pros
- High-speed 10,000-rpm brushless motor
- Rubber grip
- Lock-off safety feature
Cons
- No battery
Get the Ridgid cordless angle grinder at The Home Depot or on Amazon.
Best Lightweight
Metabo HPT Angle Grinder | 4-1/2-Inch
All-day grinding jobs can be a chore, but Metabo’s HPT angle grinder helps make the work easier. Weighing just 4 pounds (without a battery), it’s easy to maneuver, carry, lift, and manipulate over an entire day. It comes with a two-position handle as well as a toolless blade guard that the user can adjust for cutting and grinding at a variety of angles.
This cordless angle grinder from Metabo HPT doesn’t come with a battery or charger; however, it may save some money, as it works with the brand’s 18-volt battery system. With a battery installed, its brushless motor produces up to 9,000 rpm of speed for its 4.5-inch grinding and cutting wheels.
Product Specs
- Size: 4.5 inches
- Motor type: Brushless
- Top speed: 9,000 rpm
Pros
- 9,000-rpm top speed
- Brushless technology
- Lightweight 4-pound design
Cons
- No battery
Get the Metabo cordless angle grinder on Amazon.
Our Verdict
Those looking for an all-around cordless angle grinder with all the necessary features may want to check out the Makita cordless angle grinder for its 8,500-rpm top speed and electronic feedback system. For a full kit, consider the Kimo cordless angle grinder for its included grinding wheels, sanding wheels, and other attachments.
How We Chose the Best Cordless Angle Grinder
Compiling a list of the best cordless angle grinders takes a lot of effort. First, we drew upon our own experience in metalworking, grinding, and cutting metal so we could choose the features we consider most important. This gave us a baseline of models to choose from.
Next, we performed extensive product research and gathered information on the models offered by the best brands in the business. We compared the models based on their features to narrow the field considerably.
Finally, we considered power, ergonomics, and accessories. We then split them into different categories, assigned awards based on their strengths, and created this list of the best cordless angle grinders.
FAQs
If your head is spinning like a grinding wheel, don’t fret. It’s difficult to grasp so much information at once. The following are some of the most frequently asked questions about the best cordless angle grinders, so check for an answer to your question listed below.
Q. Are cordless angle grinders as good as corded angle grinders?
For shop work, it’s hard to beat the constant power provided by a corded angle grinder. However, many of the best cordless angle grinders can compete, and their portability usually pushes them to the top.
Q. How long do cordless angle grinders last?
With so many brushless motors on the market, it’s not uncommon to see power tools last 10 years or more. With just a light cleaning and proper use, cordless angle grinders can last just as long.
Q. What is the battery life of a cordless angle grinder?
The answer to this question depends on the grinder, the size of the battery, and the work in progress. Most 5.0-amp-hour batteries are enough to handle heavy-duty grinding and cutting a few times over the course of the day.
Q. How long do cordless angle grinders batteries take to charge?
This also depends on the battery’s size and the battery charger, but most modern batteries can charge in under an hour.
Q. What can a cordless angle grinder cut through?
Cordless angle grinders can cut through metal like steel, iron, aluminum, and more. They can also cut through wood when fit with the appropriate blade as well as sand or buff other surfaces.
Q. Can I grind concrete with a cordless angle grinder?
Yes, but it requires a diamond-embedded disc. Grinding concrete creates a lot of dust, so you may need to clean your grinder thoroughly when finished. The best angle grinder for concrete often has a large battery and heavy-duty construction.
Q. What is the largest wheel I can install on a cordless angle grinder?
Most cordless angle grinders only accept wheels as large as 5 inches. For larger wheels, look at corded models.